It appears Cincinnati Council's decision to increase human services funding by $3 million last year is making a difference. The funds are distributed to 34 programs focused on preventing homelessness and increasing gainful employment.

Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley said Wednesday his proposed budget revisions will include $12 million to buy the former Wasson Way line from Norfolk Southern. That would allow the city to continue with plans for a bike/hike trail to connect several city neighborhoods.

The city reached an agreement with the railroad last year to purchase about 4.1 miles of Wasson Way for $11,757,000. That deal expires on July 31, 2016, unless the city pays to extend the purchase option. Cranley's plan means the transaction should be completed this summer.

Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley is supporting a mixed used development in Avondale. It's part of a neighborhood development initiative first announced on Monday as part of the mayor's version of the budget. Cranley has already announced projects in College Hill, Westwood, and West Price Hill, and plans more announcements through the week.

Standing outside of Westwood Town Hall Monday, Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley emphasized the importance of investing in the city's neighborhoods. He announced the first of several changes to the city manager's proposed budget. Each is expected to focus on neighborhood economic development projects.

Cincinnati City Manager Harry Black laid out a $1.2 billion all-funds operating budget for the city for fiscal year 2017 Thursday that he says is structurally balanced – mainly because the city's revenue is expected to increase.

Cincinnati Council has finalized the city's property tax rate for 2017, but the measure could be subject to a mayoral veto.

Council voted 6-3 for a 5.6 mill rate . That will generate about $29.3 million or about $400,000 more than this year. Voting yes: Flynn, Mann, Seelbach, Simpson, Sittenfeld, and Young. Voting no: Murray, Smitherman and Winburn.

Cincinnati's property tax rates for 2017 will remain the same as the rates for 2016.

A council committee approved the issue Monday and a full Council vote will likely come Wednesday. The property tax rate for general operating expenses will remain at 5.6 mills, and the rate for debt service is 6.5 mills.